Code Vein II is not an Elden Ring replacement. It offers a recognizable Soulslike combat foundation, flexible builds and a distinctive partner system, but its open-world exploration and dungeon variety drew criticism, and performance concerns were reported on the PS5 version reviewed by TechRadar. It is better approached as its own action RPG than as a rival that matches Elden Ring’s scale.
What kind of game is Code Vein II?
Code Vein II is Bandai Namco’s action RPG sequel, set in a post-apocalyptic world. You play as a Revenant Hunter and travel between the present and the past with Lou, whose power makes time travel possible. The publisher highlights blood-draining attacks, Blood Codes for shaping combat builds, Jail equipment and partners as core parts of the experience. Bandai Namco’s official game page describes those features and lists the game for PS5, Xbox Series X|S and PC via Steam.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Code Vein II: Ultimate Edition - PlayStation 5 | $79.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Code Vein II - Xbox Series X | $34.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Code Vein II: Ultimate Edition - Xbox Series X | $66.49 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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CODE VEIN II Collectors Edition Steam (PC) | $390.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
CODE VEIN II Collectors Edition Xbox | $400.00 | Buy on Amazon |
Despite the number in its title, Code Vein II does not require familiarity with the first game. Bandai Namco Entertainment America’s January 26, 2026 FAQ says, “There is no story connection to the previous title.” Its story takes place in a different world.
How does it compare with Elden Ring?
The useful comparison is about what each game offers, not whether one can replace the other. Elden Ring is a reference point for expansive exploration and build freedom; Code Vein II has its own strengths, especially its partner mechanics and Blood Code system.
The Tool Desk
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- The Ultimate Edition includes: CODE VEIN II, Custom Outfit Pack - Contains 3 costume sets and 1 weapon, Expansion DLC - Mask of Idris, CODE VEIN Character Costume Set - Contains 6 costumes based on characters from the original game, CODE VEIN, CODE VEIN II Digital Mini Artbook & Soundtrack
- INTENSE AND SATISFYING COMBAT - Dive into adrenaline-fueled battles where reading enemy moves and mastering your arsenal are key to survival. Unleash powerful skills, adapt on the fly, and conquer relentless foes in fights that deliver both intensity and triumph.
- A TALE ACROSS TIME - Embark on a journey that spans both the present and the past as you search for clues to prevent the world’s destruction. Alter the fates of key Revenant characters you encounter in the past, while uncovering lost histories and the hidden truths of the world.
- UNIQUE BATTLE SYSTEM - Experience Code Vein II’s unique gameplay mechanic, where the player drains and acquires blood from enemies to unleash a variety of skills. With the series’ new build system, you can freely customize weapons and skills to suit your own battle styles.
| What to compare | Code Vein II | What that means for an Elden Ring player |
|---|---|---|
| Combat and difficulty | Reviews describe a recognizable Soulslike foundation, though PC Gamer found it relatively forgiving and often closer to hack-and-slash than a strict Dark Souls imitation. | Expect action-RPG combat with Soulslike elements, not necessarily the same level of pressure or feel. |
| Exploration and world | TechRadar praised the open world once it opens up; GamesRadar criticized repetition and locations that did not feel sufficiently distinct across the two timelines. | Do not assume its world offers Elden Ring’s scale or consistently varied exploration. |
| Build experimentation | TechRadar praised the flexibility to try builds through Blood Codes. | Build changes are a notable part of its appeal, but flexibility alone does not make the games interchangeable. |
| Performance | TechRadar reported unstable performance on the PS5 version it reviewed. | That is a platform- and review-specific warning, not a verified performance verdict for every platform or the game after later updates. |
| Solo and co-op | The official FAQ says there is no multiplayer. | Partner features are part of the game, but they are not online co-op. |
These are different kinds of evidence: GamesRadar, PC Gamer and TechRadar offer individual review judgments, while the publisher establishes official feature details. Bandai Namco Europe’s feature page explains that partners can fight alongside you or be assimilated to boost your stats. The official European page also links update news from September 2026, but the effects of those updates on the PS5 performance concerns cited above have not been established here.
What do partners and builds add?
Partners change how you approach a fight
The Partner System is more than a companion simply accompanying the player. Bandai Namco says you can switch between combat forms and use partner-linked effects. Partners may fight beside you, or you can assimilate them to gain a stat boost. Choosing between direct support and an enhancement gives the system a role in combat decisions as well as character setup.
Rank #2
- INTENSE AND SATISFYING COMBAT - Dive into adrenaline-fueled battles where reading enemy moves and mastering your arsenal are key to survival. Unleash powerful skills, adapt on the fly, and conquer relentless foes in fights that deliver both intensity and triumph.
- A TALE ACROSS TIME - Embark on a journey that spans both the present and the past as you search for clues to prevent the world’s destruction. Alter the fates of key Revenant characters you encounter in the past, while uncovering lost histories and the hidden truths of the world.
- UNIQUE BATTLE SYSTEM - Experience Code Vein II’s unique gameplay mechanic, where the player drains and acquires blood from enemies to unleash a variety of skills. With the series’ new build system, you can freely customize weapons and skills to suit your own battle styles.
- POWERFUL PARTNER CHARACTERS - Explore the world with trusted and powerful allies who can fight alongside you or enhance your abilities. Each partner brings unique abilities and deep connections that shape your journey.
Blood Codes support experimentation
Blood Codes let you shape your build, and TechRadar’s review praised the ability to try different builds through them. That flexibility is useful if you enjoy adjusting your approach rather than committing to one setup for an entire run. It is one of the clearer ways Code Vein II distinguishes its progression from a simple imitation of another Soulslike.
Should you play it solo, and how long is it?
Code Vein II is a solo experience: Bandai Namco’s FAQ says it has no multiplayer. Its partner system is an in-game combat feature, not a way to bring another player into your run. The publisher also says there are no difficulty settings, so you cannot select an easier or harder mode.
Rank #3
- The Ultimate Edition includes: CODE VEIN II, Custom Outfit Pack - Contains 3 costume sets and 1 weapon, Expansion DLC - Mask of Idris, CODE VEIN Character Costume Set - Contains 6 costumes based on characters from the original game, CODE VEIN, CODE VEIN II Digital Mini Artbook & Soundtrack
- INTENSE AND SATISFYING COMBAT - Dive into adrenaline-fueled battles where reading enemy moves and mastering your arsenal are key to survival. Unleash powerful skills, adapt on the fly, and conquer relentless foes in fights that deliver both intensity and triumph.
- A TALE ACROSS TIME - Embark on a journey that spans both the present and the past as you search for clues to prevent the world’s destruction. Alter the fates of key Revenant characters you encounter in the past, while uncovering lost histories and the hidden truths of the world.
- UNIQUE BATTLE SYSTEM - Experience Code Vein II’s unique gameplay mechanic, where the player drains and acquires blood from enemies to unleash a variety of skills. With the series’ new build system, you can freely customize weapons and skills to suit your own battle styles.
Bandai Namco estimates the main story at approximately 30 to 40 hours. That is the publisher’s estimate, not a guaranteed completion time; your pace and play style can change how long you spend.
Platforms and PC requirements
The game is listed for PS5, Xbox Series X|S and PC through Steam. On PC, Bandai Namco’s specifications name Windows 11, 16 GB RAM and 70 GB of storage. The publisher’s stated performance targets are estimates, not independently tested guarantees.
Rank #4
- The Ultimate Edition includes: CODE VEIN II, Custom Outfit Pack - Contains 3 costume sets and 1 weapon, Expansion DLC - Mask of Idris, CODE VEIN Character Costume Set - Contains 6 costumes based on characters from the original game, CODE VEIN, CODE VEIN II Digital Mini Artbook & Soundtrack
- INTENSE AND SATISFYING COMBAT - Dive into adrenaline-fueled battles where reading enemy moves and mastering your arsenal are key to survival. Unleash powerful skills, adapt on the fly, and conquer relentless foes in fights that deliver both intensity and triumph.
- A TALE ACROSS TIME - Embark on a journey that spans both the present and the past as you search for clues to prevent the world’s destruction. Alter the fates of key Revenant characters you encounter in the past, while uncovering lost histories and the hidden truths of the world.
- UNIQUE BATTLE SYSTEM - Experience Code Vein II’s unique gameplay mechanic, where the player drains and acquires blood from enemies to unleash a variety of skills. With the series’ new build system, you can freely customize weapons and skills to suit your own battle styles.
| PC tier | Graphics hardware listed by Bandai Namco | Publisher-stated target |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum | GTX 1660 SUPER, RX 5700 or Intel Arc B570 | Stable over 30 FPS at Full HD on low settings |
| Recommended | RTX 3080 or RX 6800 | Over 60 FPS at Full HD on high settings |
The Steam version supports both controllers and keyboard and mouse, according to the official FAQ. Check the Steam listing for the current PC store details.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Who should play Code Vein II?
It is a reasonable choice if you want a Soulslike action RPG with partner mechanics and room to experiment with builds, and you are comfortable with a solo campaign. It is a less certain fit if your main priority is Elden Ring-style world exploration, consistently varied dungeons, or a performance experience you can assume is the same across platforms. The published PS5 concern belongs specifically to TechRadar’s reviewed version; the available information does not establish how later updates affected it.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- The Ultimate Edition includes: CODE VEIN II, Custom Outfit Pack - Contains 3 costume sets and 1 weapon, Expansion DLC - Mask of Idris, CODE VEIN Character Costume Set - Contains 6 costumes based on characters from the original game, CODE VEIN, CODE VEIN II Digital Mini Artbook & Soundtrack
- INTENSE AND SATISFYING COMBAT - Dive into adrenaline-fueled battles where reading enemy moves and mastering your arsenal are key to survival. Unleash powerful skills, adapt on the fly, and conquer relentless foes in fights that deliver both intensity and triumph.
- A TALE ACROSS TIME - Embark on a journey that spans both the present and the past as you search for clues to prevent the world’s destruction. Alter the fates of key Revenant characters you encounter in the past, while uncovering lost histories and the hidden truths of the world.
- UNIQUE BATTLE SYSTEM - Experience Code Vein II’s unique gameplay mechanic, where the player drains and acquires blood from enemies to unleash a variety of skills. With the series’ new build system, you can freely customize weapons and skills to suit your own battle styles.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
